Irish Eyes' Take: Everett Golson

Dave Berk

12/02/2010

Strong quarterback play is key to Brian Kelly's offense and with the verbal pledge of Everett Golson, Kelly found one he's really going to enjoy working with. Our latest edition of "Irish Eyes Take" brings us to the newest Notre Dame pledge, Everett Golson.

Earlier this week, Irish Eyes reviewed where the Irish stood with quarterbacks, both at the conclusion of the regular season and on the recruiting trail. While taking a quarterback was not a necessity, getting one who shows the ability to run Brian Kelly's offense at a high level was too much for Kelly to pass up on.

What To Like

The first thing Brian Kelly looks at when talking quarterbacks is arm strength. Kelly knows his quarterbacks will be asked to make throws that require a strong arm. Everett Golson possess the type of arm Kelly looks for.

When looking at Golson on film, you find a quarterback with mobility who already knows how to move the pocket to keep a play alive. This will serve him well at Notre Dame and provide to make him a solid fit.

Everett GolsonScott Kennedy, Scout.com

The other strength to his game is his running ability. While the Irish offense is not a run first quarterback attack, Golson will allow Kelly to do some things to keep defense honest. Do not be mistaken. Golson is not a run first quarterback and has the tools to become a solid passing quarterback.

If Golson stays to plan and enrolls early at Notre Dame, he should push his game to a level where he'll be able to fight for playing time if needed early.

What May Concern You

The first thing everyone is going to look at when talking about Golson is his height. However, the thing he will have to work on most is his field vision and decision-making.

Two of Kelly's successful quarterbacks were six feet or shorter (Ben Mauk / Zach Collaros) and both posted high numbers and wins during their time under Kelly.

The offense ran by Kelly provides throwing lanes for quarterbacks who are not traditional height.

Bottom Line

Brian Kelly stayed true to his core beliefs by taking a quarterback in this class. Kelly loves to have more quarterbacks than most programs on his roster. However, this had to be the right type of quarterback and Kelly stayed very picky during the process of the signal callers he offered.

Golson will give Kelly a true dual-threat at the quarterback position and a player who will have a chance to compete early for playing time.